Posted on the 22nd January 2026 in PHTM News

LEWES TAXI TRADE HITS OUT AT "KICK IN THE TEETH" FEE HIKES AS PETITION DEMANDS FARE REVIEW

Taxi campaigners have launched a formal petition urging Lewes District Council to overhaul its fare structures and freeze licensing costs, warning that the local trade is "struggling" under the weight of rising overheads.

The move comes as councillors prepare to debate a fresh wave of fee increases with some licensing charges set to jump by more than 50 per cent.

Lead petitioner and former councillor Sean Macleod argues that drivers have been pushed to the brink by consecutive years of soaring costs.

“It’s clear the trade is struggling and after a 66 per cent fee increase last year to be hit with another 50 per cent [increase] in some cases this year is a clear kick in the teeth,” Mr. Macleod stated. 

“It’s time councillors stood up for the trade and listened to their demands as they quite frankly have been ignored for too long.”

The petition claims the current fare structure has failed to “keep pace with the dramatic and ongoing increases in operational costs, including fuel, insurance, vehicle maintenance and the overall cost of living.” 

Alongside a fare increase, campaigners are demanding a freeze on driver licence fees, an independent audit of the licensing department’s finances, and a £20,000 "Unmet Demand Survey" to assess the district's needs.

Council reports indicate that while many fees will rise by 10 per cent due to inflation, specific costs—such as the renewal of three-year driver licences—could jump by 20 per cent to £567.

More dramatic increases are proposed for vehicle livery (up 50 per cent) and replacement door signs (up 55 per cent). Officials attribute these hikes to a £140,869 budget deficit and the "significant operating costs" of managing CCTV systems in licensed vehicles.

A spokeswoman for Lewes District Council defended the annual review, noting that the proposals are still in the consultation stage.

“Fee adjustments are never taken lightly,” she said. “However, like all service providers, the council is facing significantly increased operating costs and inflationary pressures. The proposed increases reflect the actual cost of administering the scheme and ensuring the safety of the public and the taxi trade.”

She added that the local authority values the “vital service provided by the taxi trade” and confirmed that the petition would be considered through formal processes.

Mr. Macleod insists that meeting the trade's demands would be a sign of good faith. “The four steps the trade is asking for are totally reasonable given the concerns the trade have … and their minimal expense,” he said. “Not only that, it makes the trade feel listened to and that their concerns are being addressed.”

The Licensing Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday January 22, to discuss the proposals before they head to a full council vote.


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